What is the ruling on reading, memorizing, and composing romantic poetry during one's studies, and what is the ruling on seeking Sharia knowledge in a mixed-gender department when there are no unmixed schools available?
Lyrical poetry (ghazal) is permissible for a legitimate purpose, such as language learning. However, it is forbidden if it lacks a legitimate purpose, incites indecency, and arouses desires, due to its role in spreading indecency and turning people away from the path of Allah. Therefore, lyrical poetry is prohibited if it is directed at a specific woman or incites indecency. However, if it is vague and intended for quotation, there is no objection to it. As for studying in mixed-gender classes without a separating barrier, there is no harm in it if there is no fear of temptation (fitna) and attendees adhere to Islamic guidelines, especially if no non-mixed alternative is available. Otherwise, alternatives are indeed available.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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